What Are Uv-a Rays?

By Author: Chris Puetz
Total Articles: 13
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You most certainly have heard of UV-A rays. You have probably learned about the dangers of UVA rays to your skin and your eyesight. UVA rays reach us from the sunshine every day. These rays are able to penetrate the layers of the skin - even if you are behind a window as an example. Too much exposure to UVA rays can be a high risk factor for skin cancer and can cause your skin to start to age much faster before it actually should age.

You can be exposed to UV-A rays even more if there is snow on the ground or if you are swimming in a pool or the ocean. It does not matter how hot or sunny it is or even the season of the year. This is why it is necessary to wear sunscreen each day of the year if you are directly exposed to the sun. You should put on the sunscreen throughout the day while outside. This is even more necessary if you are swimming and will be in and out of the water.

There is something known as the UVI number which can help you to determine if it is a low risk or high risk day for being out in the sunshine. It is also a good idea to try to reduce your time in the sun between bout 10am and 4 ...
... in the afternoon since the UVA rays can do the most damage at this time. The UVI numbers range from 1 to 11 with 1 being the least number of rays reaching the earth at that time and 11 being the highest number.

If you are someone who enjoys having a sun tan, you might think that tanning beds are a safer option than the sun. This is not at all the case since the technology uses ultraviolet lights. This is dangerous for your skin and can actually make your skin appear more aged over time. There are even risk factors for skin cancers when using tanning beds.

It is important to remember that you will want to use caution of your eye's exposure to the sun as well. This is why it is a good idea to wear sunglasses and even hats that can help to block the sunlight or to reduce the impact of sunshine reaching your eyes and facial skin.
Read more articles from this author at sites like Waterbed Heater or Portable Induction Cooktop.